22 September 2025 |
Consisting of 58 silhouettes that can be worn over 10,000 ways it’s an ambitious undertaking.
Even if you had no clue that Skims was expanding into workout wear with Nike, you’d know within moments of glancing at the NikeSKIMS ad. First is the opening montage, a sea of toned bodies clad in neutral tones, exercising en masse. Then comes fifty athletes including Serena Williams, Sha’Carri Richardson, Jordan Chiles, Chloe Kim, as well as a slew of collegiate D1 athletes from USC and UCLA representing sports as varied as tennis, judo, lacrosse, and more, all moving elegantly in the same clothes. And finally, a figure that is as recognizable from the front as she is from the back, Kim Kardashian. Welcome to NikeSKIMS, a new subbrand under the sportswear juggernaut, designed to combine style and fashion. First announced back in February, it will finally release to the masses on Friday, both online and in Nike and Skims flagship stores.
It’s an ambitious launch, with the first drop consisting of 58 styles. Designed to be mixed and matched, NikeSKIMS is envisioned to be clothes that can go seamlessly from the gym to the weekend. Yes, it’s athleisure if you’re going by the traditional definition of the word but with a sexier, more fashionable touch. With over 10,000 possible outfit combinations, you’ll find everything from classic sports bras and leggings to tank tops with built in support to tiny shorts to low slung track pants. The initial drop consists of three core collections: matte, shine, and airy as well as four limited collections: vintage seamless, weightless layers, matte tricot, and shiny layers. All are in a limited palette of black, brown, gray, and dark burgundy. Sizing is expansive ranging from XXS to 4X with bras that go from 32B to 44DDD.
Matte, like the name implies, is made to be smoothing and sculpting, taking a cue from SKIMS but the Dri-Fit properties are all Nike. Designed for studio workouts, there are 21 styles. Standouts include the double strap scoop bra and the micro scoop bra, although the real star of the show is one specific pair of leggings. Called the footsie, it’s a combo pants and socks, made for the Pilates lovers out there, complete with little grippies. Consider them the workout girl’s version of the Balenciaga pantashoots that Kardashian is fond of. For those who prefer more intense forms of exercise, the Shine series offers more support with the same quick dry technology. Airy, on the other hand, is lightweight and breathable and made from a mesh-inspired knit. These are intended for low-impact exercise or to style with other pieces.
As for the seasonal collections, Vintage Seamless takes a cue from your favorite faded comfies as its made from waffle fabric and offers a worn out look while Weightless Layers are sheer pieces that can be mixed into your wardrobe (a pair of tights and a long sleeve both were particularly eye-catching!). Given the resurgence of interest in track pants, Matte Tricot is sure to be popular, especially the low slung snap trousers while Shiny Nylon offers a futuristic take on drawstring balloon pants.
Expect future drops, although the schedule hasn’t been formally announced. In the meantime set your alarms for 9 a.m. this Friday — the core collections will come back but if any of the seasonal ones are on your wishlist, note that they won’t make a return. When they’re gone, they’re gone for good.
